Summer is only a few weeks away...all that rain we have endured pays off in the most beautiful way. Lush greenery, flower fields, warm breezes and genuinely happy people because it's finally sunny and the days are long! Summer is a time when you're not in the grind of shuttling your kids to school and sports. It might be when family comes into town and you incorporate some photos of grandparents in the mix. I wrote about some pretty spring locations here and now want to share some amazing spots in the greater Seattle area that are perfect for a warm, summer day photo session!
MoPOP in Seattle
If you're looking for something unique, colorful, hip and urban, the MoPOP is your spot. Colorful purplish-blue reflective walls, views of the Space Needle and the occasional monorail zipping by offer such a cool backdrop! Make it fun for your kids by by grabbing an early dinner at the Seattle Center Armory, doing your family shoot and then letting your kiddos play at the Artists At Play playground.
Discovery Park in Seattle
Tall grasses, mountain and water views from the bluff and bonus, sweet peas if you're visiting in July! This spot has quintessential Pacific Northwest vibes. The best spots are a 10-15 minute walk from the parking lot, up a flight of stairs and along paved pathways. A great spot be active, free and get alllll the wiggles out! More photos from Discovery Park here.
Bellevue Botanical Garden in Bellevue
These gardens are lush with greenery and flowers, making for photos with lots of layering and variety. It's a great spot if you have kids who are more mellow as there aren't a lot of wide open spaces to run around. There's a rock garden, multiple pathways full of flowers and a forest. End your session with a quick drive to Kura Revolving Sushi Bar and having your kids look wide-eyed as robots deliver your drinks.
Marymoor Park in Redmond
The light can be utilized in different ways here. Front lit, backlit and if it's sunny, silhouette. The parking lot is super close and the tall grasses, peek-a-boo views of Mt. Rainier (on a clear day) and quiet atmosphere make for a relaxed session. Book-end your session with a visit to Spark Pizza and/or Molly Moons Ice Cream.
JB Family Growers in Woodinville
Flower fields make me SO happy!!! Daisies in June, lavender/sunflowers in July and wildflowers/sunflowers in August. This spot is a photographer's dream! With the different variety of flowers, 5 minute walk from parking lot and peek-a-boo views of Mt. Rainier (on a clear day), it's a spot I look forward to every summer. More photos from JB Family Growers here.
Book your summer photos!
Summer is such a fun and relaxed time for family photos. Bonus, it's less busy too compared with the fall rush! Swap photos of your family in front of red maple leaves with the Space Needle. Swap photos of your kids throwing fall leaves with them running through a field of wildflowers. Swap cozy scarves with colorful or printed tops. If there's a particular location that you'd like, let me know and I'd be happy to scout it for the best lighting and backdrops. If you've always booked in the fall, why not try summer this year! :)
